Thailand is Southeast Asia's most visited destination by international tourists having recorded 32.59 million foreign visitors alone in 2016. In Thailand, a tourist can see and do almost anything cheaply and in a variety of ways.
Exotic, cheap yet equipped with every modern amenity a traveler would need, there are a range of activities and accommodation to cater to every interest and every price bracket including a stay at a beach front backpacker bungalow, or for those who like to live a five star lifestyle when on vacation, some of the best luxury hotels in the world. Amazingly despite the heavy flow of tourism Thailand retains its unique 'Thai-ness', with a culture and history all its own Thai people are carefree and famed for their smiles and fun-seeking 'sanuk' lifestyle.
Many travelers come to Thailand and extend their stay well beyond their original plans having been captivated by the country and its people, while others never find a reason to leave. With great food, a tropical climate, fascinating culture, majestic mountains and great beaches, Thailand is a magnet for travelers around the world, young and old alike. The destination is also a popular one for older solo female travelers such as myself. If you enjoy the exotic and like to experience intense calamity and true relaxation at the same time, then Thailand is a destination not to be missed.
The following information provides the traveler with a list of known exposure risks for those considering traveling to Thailand. Always consult with your Doctor before traveling overseas.
When heading away to any destination, older travelers should take the time to undertake and pre-prepare for their journey away from home. Different climates and conditions can sometimes pose a risk to travelers of any age, with many unknowingly placing themselves at risk of exposure to illness or disease.
Note: The following material has been provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be relied on as a substitute for professional medical advice. No person should act, fail to act, disregard professional medical advice, or delay seeking professional medical advice on the basis of this material. The Travelnanna website, nor its representatives does not guarantee the accuracy, currency or completeness of any of this information and will not be liable for any loss, damage or injury directly or indirectly caused by this material or its use.
Chickenpox
This very common infectious disease can now be prevented through immunization. Many people miss the disease in childhood only to have a significant illness as an adult.
Chikungunya Virus, Dengue Fever, Zika Virus
Chikungunya Virus, Dengue Fever and Zika Virus are viral illnesses borne by mosquitoes. The risk is present in many countries in the tropics. There is no vaccine to prevent these illnesses (Dengue fever vaccine is currently available in a few countries). Please discuss your travel plans with a doctor who can assess your risk based on your itinerary.
Hepatitis A
This is a viral disease of the liver which is transmitted through eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water.
Hepatitis B
This is a viral disease of the liver that is transmitted via blood, blood products or bodily fluids and is vaccine preventable.
Influenza
Travelers go through crowded venues like airports, or on commuter transport. Influenza is the most common vaccine to prevent travel related illness. Vaccination against influenza is generally highly recommended.
Japanese Encephalitis
JE is a mosquito borne viral disease prevalent in rural areas of Asia that can lead to serious brain infection in humans. Risk is greatest during the monsoon months however the risk is generally very low for most travelers. Vaccines are available if the exposure risk is deemed to be high.
Malaria
Malaria is transmitted by a night biting mosquito. The decision to use or not use, anti-malarial drugs should be made after consultation with a travel health doctor, taking into consideration the relative malaria risk of areas on the traveler’s itinerary as well as any potential side effects.
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
Vaccination is recommended for travelers born after 1966 who cannot confirm that they have received two doses of measles containing vaccine. Since 1990, this may have been the combination vaccine MMR (measles, mumps and rubella).
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly viral infection of the brain. Risk increases with extended travel and the likelihood of animal contact.
Meningococcal Disease
Meningococcal disease is a very serious bacterial infection which is often life-threatening. It may manifest as meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain)and/or septicaemia (blood poisoning).
Poliomyelitis
All travelers should be up to date with vaccination against polio. Poliomyelitis is a viral infection that can lead to paralysis and sometimes death. For those who have completed childhoood immunisation, a single booster dose of polio vaccine as an adult will generally provide long-term protection.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly viral infection of the brain. Risk increases with extended travel and the likelihood of animal contact.
Tetanus, Pertussis, Diphtheria
Tetanus is caused by a toxin released by common dust or soil bacteria which enters the body through a wound. Diphtheria is a bacterial infection of the throat and less frequently, the skin. Pertussis or whooping cough (known as the 100 day cough in Chinese) is a highly infectious respiratory infection responsible for over 300,000 deaths annually, mainly in children. These three illnesses are preventable and covered in the same vaccine.
Traveler’s Diarrhoea
Up to 40% of tourists may develop three or more loose bowel motions a day within the first week of travel. A variety of germs can be responsible for this infection and a travelers may choose to pack products such as Gastro-Stop to remedy the problem quickly.
Typhoid
Typhoid fever is caused by bacteria found in contaminated food and water. It is endemic in the developing world and vaccination is recommended for travelers to areas where environmental sanitation and personal hygiene may be poor.
